Transform a simple handkerchief or piece of cloth that you don’t use into an original gift wrap with this Japanese technique. Furoshiki has variants that allow delivery from boxes to bottles.
There is a technique to deliver gifts without spending money on disposable paper or bows. It is known as furoshiki and comes from Japan. It consists of taking a square or rectangular cloth and carrying out a series of steps to cover bottles, boxes, devices or any small to medium-sized object.
For a long time it has gained popularity through social networks due to the advantages that its use implies. It is a method that combines care for the environment with delicacy and decorative aesthetics that characterizes Japanese art. In addition, it can be applied in different formats and presentations. Let’s see more about it.
what is the furoshiki and where does it come from?
Furoshiki It can refer to two things; on the one hand, to the oriental technique applied to wrap objects in order to transport or give them away. On the other, the fabric used for this technique, originally silk.
However, at present you can find specimens with different clothing, such as cotton or nylon; as long as they are resistant textiles. Regardless of this, it encompasses a series of wrapping techniques, which become ideal for delivering birthday gifts or at Christmas time.
In addition, it saves spending on wrapping paper and plastic bags. The latter are one of the most harmful polluting objects for the environment. For this reason, the Japanese government itself carried out a campaign to recover the traditional practice of furoshiki.
To do it, It is enough to take any fabric that we do not use, be it handkerchiefs, tablecloths or shirts. After giving it a rectangular format, it is enough to follow a series of steps to wrap under the Japanese technique.
Origen
The technique of furoshiki It has ancient origins, dating back to at least the 8th century AD. At that time it was applied to keep Buddhist relics. Later, the nobility began to use it to store clothes. Especially, during the Heian period (794-1185), last considered as a classical period in Japanese history.
However, it gained its greatest popularity during the Muromachi era. That is, between the years 1333 and 1573., Also during the Edo, which passed between 1603 and 1868. Therefore, it is a practice with centuries of history. The term spread along with Japanese bath houses, known as onsen.
with the handkerchief called furoshiki, attendees wrapped their clothes before immersing themselves in the hot springs, in order not to get confused when picking them up. This explains the literal translation of the term, that is, ‘bath cloth’. Decades later, merchants applied it to move their merchandise. Hence its derivation to current use.
Meaning
Like many terms and practices of Japanese origin, the furoshiki hides deep meanings in its application. In general, the art of packing implies a gesture towards the person who receives it. Beyond this, it expresses respect, dedication and love, which is included in the term tsutsumu.
Also, when packing an object with cloth, it is necessary to close it with a knot. This knotting brings together an expression of union between people or, in Japanese terms, musubu.
5 ideas to apply the furoshiki
This technique works with any color and pattern, without the need to source a particular fabric. The format of the furoshiki It depends on personal taste and what is considered appropriate for the recipient. Flowered, dotted or with hearts, Japanese wrappers decorate presents in a subtle and aesthetic way.
With them, it is possible to wrap clothes, toys, boxes, electronic devices and even glass bottles. They are even useful for creating a carry bag. There are dozens of ideas and formats to apply it. We leave some of the most popular on social networks.
1. Gift bag
If you bought a gift in a store, it will most likely come in a paper bag. This typical packaging can be embellished following the principles of furoshiki. It is enough to place it in the center of an extended square scarf.
Then lift and tie the two ends on the same side to the handles. Do the same movement with the ends of the remaining side. Leave a rest of the cloth free to make a final knot and deliver the gift in a more aesthetic way.
2. Furoshiki general
The most common way to apply this technique is place the object on one of the vertices of the spread handkerchief. Then, take the opposite tip and cover it all, making a complete turn over it.
The other two ends of the scarf will be free to raise and tie a knot to seal the wrapper. Works great with notebooks, books, and small accessories.
3. Wrap bottles
One of the most practical functions of the furoshiki is to wrap bottles of any material, even glass. The Japanese call it bin tsutsumi and consists of placing the bottle standing in the center of the spread cloth.
The next step is to take two opposite ends and join them with a knot on the beak. The remaining ends are gathered and tied in the center, skirting the bottle to give it more protection..
4. Style boxes furoshiki
A gift box can also be embellished using this technique. To achieve this, you have to place it in the center of the cloth, tie two ends on it and make a top knot with the remaining sides.
It is a technique similar to that of point number 2, but the object is placed in the center. Also, it works for larger gifts, as long as the textile covers it in its entirety.
5. Bag with handle
To transform a scarf into a comfortable bag with handles, take two large rings and place them at opposite ends of the fabric. Then, it will be necessary to transfer two ends around a hoop and tie them with a knot.
Then, you have to perform the same action on the other side. when lifting it, you will get a bag with handles for grip and space for storage.
Furoshiki: practicality, recycling and meaning
With any of these methods to wrap objects following the principles of the furoshiki, you can get a new packaging that triumphs for its originality. At the same time, a deep feeling of togetherness and respect is expressed thanks to the emotional charge that this Japanese technique possesses.
You might be interested…